This August I will attempt to swim solo across the English Channel. The challenge is dedicated to the memory of Richard Knox, who died in August 2011, and will seek to raise £10,000 for the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (R.N.L.I.). 

The first person to swim across the English Channel was Captain Matthew Webb on 25th August 1875. Since that date less people have completed the crossing than have climbed Everest. Indeed in the open water swimming world, the English Channel is considered the "Mount Everest" of open water crossings. This is largely down to two key factors: first, the swim is unaided. Essentially this means that at no point are you allowed to touch the support boat (although you are allowed to be handed sustenance). Second, wetsuits are NOT allowed. I know what you are thinking.... brrrrrr

I would like to complete the swim in 12 - 14 hours, however crossings have been known to take in excess of 24 hours. My goal is to simply get to the other side. As you will appreciate the weather will play a significant part and whilst the target date for the swim is the 2nd or 3rd August, if the forecast is too rough, the swim will be postponed and could even be moved forward.

The English Channel is the busiest shipping lane in the world. To navigate it safely I will have a pilot boat to guide me. At its narrowest point it is 21 miles wide however tides and currents mean my course will resemble more of an “S” shape and the distance I will travel through the water is likely to be significantly more than 21 miles. There is also the risk of being caught in a tidal eddy (particularly as I approach the French coast) which could significantly hinder my progress.

In addition to jelly fish, filthy water and P&O Ferries another consideration is the risk of hypothermia. This is one of my largest concerns and to combat it I have been told to gain 20 kg’s (that’s 2.4 stone for you imperial lovers). All I can say is, good news for McDonalds shareholders.

I have dedicated the challenge to the memory of Richard Knox (affectionately known as Knockers) who died tragically while on holiday with friends in August 2011. He was a great friend to all those that had the pleasure to meet him. Whilst it is almost inconceivable that he would have swum the Channel  himself his positive approach to life continues to inspire many of those that knew him.

The R.N.L.I. is an organisation that is very close to my heart and funded entirely by charitable donations. 75% of the funds raised will be donated to Padstow Lifeboat Station and 25% to the R.N.L.I. general fund. Padstow Lifeboat Station is responsible for a vast stretch of the North Cornwall coastline and comes to the aid of stricken vessels as far as 50 miles offshore.

Thank you in advance for your kind donation and fingers firmly crossed for fair weather on the 2nd and 3rd August!